If your flat or house is cold during winter, and all attempts to improve your heating system's functionality, including flushing and increasing pressure to warm the radiators, prove fruitless, then it's time to consider replacing your heating radiators.
Everything depends on where the unit will be located and the room's area. There are several types of radiators available:
Radiator Replacement – What's Important to Know
1. Bimetallic radiators
2. Aluminium radiators
3. Cast iron radiators
4. Steel panel radiators
Bimetallic radiators are the most durable and long-lasting. The lifespan of this type of radiator is considered to be 15-18 years, or even more. Bimetallic radiators are made from an alloy of aluminium and steel. Such manufacturing technology allows the radiator to withstand higher pressure and also increases its heat conductivity.
The pressure in a heating system is much higher in apartment buildings than in private homes heated by gas or electric boilers.
Therefore, bimetallic radiators are most suitable for flats.
In a private house, where the heating system pressure is over 3.5 kg, aluminium radiators can be installed. Their heat conductivity is practically the same as bimetallic radiators, but they are several times more affordable. Although cast iron radiators are likely to last longer than all other radiators, it's not worth choosing them because, in terms of economy and heat output, they fall short even compared to the cheapest option – steel panel radiators.
Before replacing a radiator, the heating system must be drained, at least the individual riser if we are talking about a larger apartment building. Then, the old unit is removed, and all threads coming from the main pipes are cleaned.
If the old radiator had a temperature-reducing valve installed, it would be better to install one on both the inlet and outlet. This procedure allows for regulating the room temperature. Also, during installation, one should not forget the optimal measurements: install the radiator 3-4 cm from the wall and 10-15 cm from the floor. When installing the radiator, it must also be leveled to prevent air from accumulating within the radiator.